How To Use CPT Code 69720

CPT 69720 describes the surgical procedure for decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 69720?

CPT 69720 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure that involves decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear. This procedure is performed to relieve pressure on the facial nerve and restore its normal function. It is typically done to treat conditions such as facial paralysis or facial nerve disorders.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69720 is: ‘Decompression facial nerve, intratemporal; lateral to geniculate ganglion.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned on the operating table, similar to a mastoidectomy procedure.
2. An incision is made either behind or above the ear to access the middle ear.
3. The temporal muscle is elevated to expose the yellow bone of the otic capsule.
4. The physician drills over the mastoid until the geniculate ganglion is identified.
5. A disposable microscalpel is used to slit the sheath of the facial nerve.
6. A piece of the bone flap is used to cover any defects in the tympani.
7. The incision is closed, and a bandage is placed over the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 69720 is performed on patients who require decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear. This procedure is typically indicated for patients with facial paralysis or facial nerve disorders. The surgery is performed by a qualified physician and requires access to the middle ear through an incision made behind or above the ear.

5. When to use CPT code 69720

CPT code 69720 should be used when a surgical decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear is performed. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. This code should not be used for any other procedures or surgeries.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69720, the physician must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for facial nerve decompression
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the approach used and any specific techniques utilized
• Date of the surgery and the duration of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the surgery
• Post-operative care instructions and follow-up plans
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69720, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. This code should not be reported with other codes unless there are additional procedures or services performed during the same surgical session. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers when reporting CPT 69720.

8. Historical information

CPT 69720 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with facial paralysis undergoes decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to restore facial function.
2. A patient with a facial nerve disorder undergoes surgical decompression to relieve pressure on the nerve and improve symptoms.
3. A physician performs decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to treat a patient with facial weakness.
4. A surgical team performs decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to address facial nerve compression caused by trauma.
5. A patient with Bell’s palsy undergoes decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to expedite recovery and restore facial function.
6. A surgeon performs decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to treat a patient with facial nerve paralysis resulting from an infection.
7. A patient with a facial nerve tumor undergoes surgical decompression to alleviate pressure on the nerve and prevent further complications.
8. A physician performs decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to address facial nerve dysfunction caused by a congenital anomaly.
9. A surgical team performs decompression of the facial nerve in the middle ear to treat a patient with facial nerve palsy resulting from a cerebrovascular accident.
10. A patient with facial nerve compression due to a middle ear infection undergoes surgical decompression to relieve symptoms and restore facial function.